Word Origin & History

also air-lift, 1893 as a type of pumping device; 1945 in the sense "transportation of supplies by air," from air (n.1) + lift (n.). As a verb by 1949; popularized in reference to the response to the West Berlin blockade. Related: Air-lifted; air-lifting.

Example Sentences for airlift

An airlift of supplies dropped by parachute was being organized.

The Soviet effort to capture Berlin by blockade was thwarted by the courageous Allied airlift.

It looked as helpless as isolated Berlin did before the first airlift proved what men and planes could do in the way of transport.

How long do you think it'd take, with the equipment you have, to airlift all of Jonkvank's loyal troops into the city?

The need to respond on a moment's notice adds to the value of airlift and prepositioned ships.